bmy88 NTA, stakeholders vow to enforce mechanisms vs illicit tobacco trade

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National Tobacco Administration (NTA) Commissioner Belinda Sanchez, along with other NTA officials, sign the Commitment Wall of the 2nd International Tobacco Summit on Tuesday, January 28, 2025. —Jown Manalo/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — The National Tobacco Administration (NTA), along with government agencies, farmers, fisherfolk, private sector representatives, and tobacco manufacturers, have pledged to strengthen enforcement mechanisms against the illicit trade of tobacco products under existing laws.

During a ceremonial commitment wall signing at the second International Tobacco Summit on Tuesday, stakeholders underscored their dedication to combating illegal tobacco trade and called for policy reforms to enhance the regulatory framework.

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“We affirm the importance of the tobacco industry in promoting the country’s socioeconomic growth and its role in achieving a stronger and more resilient agricultural sector,” read the text on the commitment wall.

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The stakeholders also recognized the widespread consequences of illicit tobacco trade, stating: “We recognize that illicit trade in tobacco products and its consequences are threats not only to the industry but to society in general, resulting in the deprivation of farmers’ livelihood and income, diminution of government revenues, spawning of other criminal activities, and ultimately, inimical to public welfare.”

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READ: Tobacco industry regulator ups fight vs illegal trade with int’l summit

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The NTA and other signatories committed to raising awareness through information and education campaigns aimed at mobilizing communities to act against illicit tobacco trade.

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They also vowed to support tobacco farmers and other industry stakeholders through initiatives that promote productivity, sustainability, and global competitiveness.

“We stand united in advancing the local tobacco industry and combating illicit trade to restore the integrity and vitality of the agricultural sector, to protect our communities, and to ensure public welfare and the well-being of our nation,” NTA Commissioner Belinda Sanchez said, reading from the commitment wall.

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The summit, held from January 27 to 28 at Seda Vertis North Hotel, carried the theme, “Advancing the Local Tobacco Industry and Combating Illicit Trade.”

On its second day, discussions focused on the scope of the illicit tobacco trade in the region, strengthening regional cooperation, and enhancing the Philippine government’s enforcement measures.

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Through the summitbmy88, the NTA aims to safeguard the local tobacco industry while intensifying efforts to combat the illicit trade that threatens farmers’ livelihoods, public welfare, and government revenues.

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